What's Happening?
Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has announced the removal of CNN Max, a 24/7 live news feed, from HBO Max effective November 17, 2025. This decision impacts subscribers who accessed CNN's continuous news channel through the entertainment service. In its place, CNN plans to introduce a new subscription streaming service later in the fall, offering live news channels, catch-up features, and on-demand programming accessible via mobile apps, connected-TV devices, and CNN.com. This new service will be part of CNN's 'All Access' subscription tier, which provides unlimited access to articles and digital content for $3.99 per month. The move follows the unsuccessful launch of CNN+ in March 2022, which was shut down after 29 days. CNN Max on HBO Max began as an 'open beta' in September 2023, serving as an experiment to test programming and viewer preferences.
Why It's Important?
The removal of CNN Max from HBO Max marks a significant shift in CNN's digital strategy, emphasizing the network's pivot towards direct-to-consumer streaming services. This change is part of a broader restructuring within Warner Bros. Discovery, which plans to split into two companies: one focusing on streaming and studios, and the other on networks including CNN. The new streaming service aims to leverage insights gained from the HBO Max experiment to offer a more tailored and engaging news experience. By bundling text and video content, CNN hopes to increase user loyalty and revenue, competing with other media outlets that offer similar packages. The restructuring and digital pivot reflect the challenges faced by traditional cable networks in adapting to the evolving media landscape, where digital consumption is increasingly dominant.
What's Next?
CNN is set to launch its new streaming service later in the fall, integrated into the 'All Access' subscription tier. The service will offer live news, catch-up clips, and on-demand shows, aiming to replicate the continuous live news experience of cable with digital-friendly features like pause, rewind, and personalized recommendations. Additionally, CNN is developing a weather app to provide local and national forecasts, initially free but later integrated into the subscription tier. Warner Bros. Discovery's corporate split is expected to be completed by mid-2026, underscoring the need for CNN to build direct-to-consumer revenue. The network is also exploring other lifestyle products to diversify its offerings and revenue streams.
Beyond the Headlines
CNN's digital pivot involves significant workforce restructuring, with around 200 jobs cut and $70 million reinvested to create approximately 100 digital positions. This shift aims to align CNN's operations with the platforms where audiences are moving, ensuring the network's future in the digital age. The restructuring within Warner Bros. Discovery highlights the strategic separation between entertainment streaming and news, allowing each unit to focus on its core strengths. CNN's approach to bundling text and video content mirrors successful models from other media outlets, emphasizing the importance of building daily habits through personalized news briefings and lifestyle features.
